A Season of Angels Page 0,97

right. Getting married now would have been wrong for us both."

"You're very wise for your years." Leah greatly admired Michelle for looking past her pain and finding her peace. Women much older would have difficulty recognizing such deep truths.

"For a while I seriously considered getting an abortion. I never thought I was that kind of person. That's what my mother wanted and later when my dad found out, he did too."

"But you didn't."

"I'm pleased now that I decided to go through with the pregnancy. It hasn't been easy, especially toward the end when I looked like a blimp. My parents have had a difficult time dealing with me having this baby. They said they loved me, but if I wanted to do this, then I'd do it alone. That's why no one is here."

"You're a strong woman, Michelle."

"It was the right choice for me. What surprises me is how much I love this baby."

"You're going to be a good mother."

"I want to be the very best."

With this kind of attitude, Michelle had a chance, Leah decided. She stepped around to the end of the bed. "It's time we check you again." The last series of pains had gained in intensity and she suspected Michelle would soon be entering the third stage of labor.

Once the task was completed, Michelle relaxed. "Will you be in the delivery room with me?"

"I'm not sure," Leah said. "Normally I'd stay but I have a doctor's appointment this afternoon myself. Let's play this by ear and see how matters go. You're doing just great so I don't think there'll be any problem."

"Good," Michelle, said faintly. "I want you to be there if you can. I need someone."

To have Michelle so alone at this important moment tore at Leah's heart. She longed to reassure her patient that she'd seen cases like hers often. "Your parents will come around soon enough," Leah said, gently patting her hand. "They're going to love this baby. They won't be able to help themselves."

"I think so too."

"Do you have any names picked out?"

Michelle shook her sweat-dampened head. "No, I didn't want to know if the baby was a girl or a boy. I thought I'd decide on a name later."

Another two hours passed before Michelle was ready for the delivery room. Leah went in with her, along with the anesthesiologist, Dr. Leon, and the gynecologist, Dr. Beecher. Leah had worked with the anesthesiologist on numerous occasions.

Michelle was a model patient and when the moment came for her baby to be born, she gave a shout of joy. "A girl, a girl." Leah weighed the squalling newborn, wrapped her in a warm blanket, and gently placed her in Michelle's arms.

"A girl," Michelle sobbed. "I'm so pleased I had a little girl. That was what I wanted, but I was so afraid to care."

"She's a beautiful baby," Leah said.

"Thank you. Thank you for your help."

After she carried the newborn into the nursery, Leah happened to glance up at the clock. She'd need to hurry if she was going to make it to Dr. Benoit's in time for her appointment. "I have to rush now, but I'll be by to see you in the morning," she told Michelle when she returned.

"Please don't forget," Michelle said.

"I won't," Leah promised. She started to leave, but Michelle grabbed hold of her hand. "I couldn't have done it without you. Thank you."

"I wasn't the one who worked so hard," Leah said, squeezing the young woman's hand. "Give yourself some credit."

Michelle beamed her a bright smile. "All right, I will." She closed her eyes and yawned. "I feel like I could sleep for a week."

" 'Bye for now." On her way out the door Leah realized Michelle was already asleep.

Leah felt wonderful. Her workday had been full and rewarding. She hurried into the parking lot and started her car, driving past the nativity scene on the hospital side yard. A sense of expectancy filled her. The way she felt, she didn't need Dr. Benoit to confirm what she already knew. There wasn't a doubt in her mind what he would tell her.

The housekeeper had instructions to place a bottle of fine champagne on ice, and there were two thick steaks in the refrigerator. This evening she and Andrew would celebrate. She'd call her parents and if possible wait until the following evening to let Andrew's mother know when they got together for Christmas Eve.

This would be the best Christmas ever, Leah was convinced of that.

Dr. Benoit was a kind, older